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How to Choose a Graduate School

Whether you just finished your undergraduate work or have been in the job market for years, pursuing an advanced degree can further your academic and career goals. Your focus of study is more specific than when you entered your undergraduate college, and so will the process of selecting a graduate program. Consider these areas while searching for your perfect graduate program:

General Concerns

Enrolling in graduate school is a big decision with a lot to consider. Don’t overlook the basics when comparing graduate programs. How do you like the school’s location? Are the facilities adequate for your research needs? Are the program costs within your budget?

Going to graduate school means committing yourself to living in one location for two to seven years. Make sure you are happy with the school’s location before packing your bags. Also, consider the location in relation to what you will be studying. For example, if you will be researching wildlife biology, you probably won’t want to attend an urban school.

Take a look at the facilities available to students. Since you’ll be spending much of your time doing research, the school’s resources should meet your needs. Are the research facilities top of the line or gathering dust? Does the library have the latest books or do the shelves look a little bare?

Earning an advanced degree won’t be cheap. The average debt accumulated for graduate degrees ranges from $27,000 to $114,000, according to . Compare the costs of different programs and explore what financial assistance is available. Keep in mind that a program’s sticker price may be high, but this number could drop significantly if the school offers a wide variety of financial aid.

Academics

You’re going to graduate school to further your academic and career goals. Academic quality should rank as one of your top concerns when weighing the merits of various programs.

Don’t assume a program will include your specific academic focus. Make sure the graduate schools you are considering have the field of study and research programs that meet your interests. Unlike undergraduate programs, graduate schools focus on a few areas within a specific discipline. If you want to concentrate in environmental biology, check if a graduate biology program offers this area.

If you are unsure of the exact focus you want to pursue, choose a program that allows you to explore several research areas. “I did not have a specific project in mind when I applied to grad school. For that reason, I decided to apply to schools which allow students to explore different areas,” says Maria Sierra, a graduate student enrolled in the biology program at the University of Chicago.

Graduate programs concentrate on theoretical or practical applications. Theoretical programs emphasize academic theory and are best suited for students who intend to enter academia. Practical programs concentrate on practical career skills and are better for students interested in careers outside of teaching or research. Consider which focus best matches your interests.

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